Elliniki Salata with Creamy Tzatziki 🥗🧄

Fresh, vibrant, and full of flavor, Elliniki Salata is a classic Greek salad that brightens up any meal. Paired with homemade Tzatziki, it's a refreshing dish that is perfect as a side or a light main course. Ideal for warm days or get-togethers with friends, this combo is sure to impress!

Ingredients

For the Elliniki Salata

• 2 large cucumbers, peeled & sliced
• 5 medium tomatoes, wedged
• ½ onion, sliced
• ½ lb. can of whole pitted black olives
• ¾ cup crumbled feta cheese
• 2 cups Tzatziki dressing (recipe below)

For the Tzatziki

• 1 large cucumber
• 1 tsp coarse (Kosher) salt
• 1½ tbsp plain yogurt
• 1½ tsp fresh lemon juice
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1½ tbsp fresh parsley, minced
• ¾ cup olive oil

Instructions

For the Elliniki Salata

1. In a large bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers, wedged tomatoes, sliced onion, whole olives, and crumbled feta cheese.
2. Gently toss the ingredients together to mix.

🥗 For added crunch, try using heirloom tomatoes in different colors! Their variety will enhance the visual appeal of your salad.

3. Serve immediately with a generous drizzle of Tzatziki dressing.

For the Tzatziki

1. Peel, halve, and seed the cucumber, then sprinkle the inside with salt. Let it sit for 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture.
2. Pat the cucumber dry with a paper towel and shred it into a large bowl.
3. Add the plain yogurt, lemon juice, minced garlic, and minced parsley to the shredded cucumber.
4. Stir in the olive oil until well combined.

🧄 To add a spicy twist, incorporate a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes into your Tzatziki for a delightful kick!

Tips & Variations

• Add Extra Veggies: Consider incorporating bell peppers, radishes, or even avocado for an extra burst of flavor.
• Make it Vegan: Replace the yogurt with a plant-based alternative, like coconut yogurt.
• Healthier Option: Swap traditional feta for a lower-fat version or try a vegan feta for a lighter, dairy-free salad.
• Storage: Both the salad and Tzatziki can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days, making it a great meal prep option!

Enjoy your delicious Elliniki Salata with creamy Tzatziki, and savor a taste of Greece right at home! 🇬🇷✨